Welcome to the Thinking Outside the Box Wiki
This site has been developed by the AMDSB's
Teachers of the Gifted to provide resources and
support for the staff and parents of gifted learners in
the S.O.A.R. program. Please explore the sidebar to the left
for useful websites and information.
Giftedness is an unusually advanced degree of general intellectual ability that requires differentiated learning experiences of a depth and breadth beyond those normally provided in the regular school program to satisfy the level of educational potential indicated"
Ontario Ministry of Education and Training
S.O.A.R. Program
S.O.A.R. (Self-directed Opportunities Achievements and Rewards) is a one day a week withdrawal program for Grade 4 - 6 identified gifted learners in the Avon Maitland District School Board.
Program Goals
The S.O.A.R. program acts as a "think" igniter sparking the gifted learner's potential. Its focus is on cognitive and affective skills. Students have the opportunity to:
- gain an understanding of self
- interact with peers of similar abilities and interests
- develop and practice creative thinking and problem solving skills within an area of study
- develop and practice critical thinking and logical deductive reasoning skills
- develop advanced research and technology skills to become a self-directed learner
The S.O.A.R.Handbook provides a detailed explanation of the program's objectives and procedures.
Identification Process
- To review the identification process please see the following document: AMDSB Gifted Criteria
Locations
EAST - Stratford Central Public School - Ms. Cynthia Carlson
Contact Information: 519-271-4500 or cindcarl@fc.amdsb.ca
Tuesday - Grade 4
Wednesday - Grade 5
Thursday - Grade 6
WEST - Seaforth Public School - Mrs. Shannon Empson
Contact Information: 519-527-0790 or shanemps@fc.amdsb.ca
Tuesday - South Huron Schools - Grades 4-6
Thursday - North and West Huron Schools - Grades 4-6
System Principal of Special Education - Dave Higgins